Spicy Green Pepper & Rice Casserole

I like stuffed peppers but my husband just picks all the filling out and leaves the pepper behind.  In an effort to appease my sweetie I made a casserole using the rice filling for stuffed peppers.  I added in 2-3 chopped green peppers (for me :) and kicked up the flavor for Matt.  I kicked up the flavor a lot!  More than I had intended...a bit too much for my little boys.  If you like spicy go for the recipe below.  If you like things milder I have indicated suggested substitutions. 

Spicy Green Pepper & Rice Casserole  Source: An 'A' For Effort

Ingredients:

2-3 green peppers, chopped

1 lb hot sausage (Mild substitution: ground beef)

6 C cooked rice (or more)

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Mild substitution: plain diced tomatoes without chilies)

1 small onion, chopped

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp chili powder (Mild substitution: omit completely)

1 can kidney beans, drained

1 can mushrooms

salt & pepper to taste

Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Directions:

1. Cook rice to make 6 + cups.

2. Preheat oven to 350 F.

3. Brown and drain hot sausage, green pepper and onion.

4. Combine all ingredients in a very large bowl.

5. Place in a 9 x 13 pan.  Top with cheese.

6. Bake until hot.